As a professional musician since 2005 and with a decade of teaching experience and over 20 years of constant learning as a horn player I am proud to offer a comprehensive knowledge of relevant performance and learning skills.

My instrumental teaching covers all the skills required to understand the mechanics and technical requirements of the instrument and for the successful reading, learning, interpretation and performance of music. My lessons extend to include knowledge of the physical and mental aspects of playing, and the music and performance itself in a wider context.

Practice Skills - Individual or Class teaching

Either individually or in groups based on level, these are not performance classes, as such, although do involve some playing. Concentration is on how to practice, not how a work should sound or be interpreted... read more

Students who have specific issues with their piece, study or exercise (style, breathing, fingering, tonguing, clean slurring, memorisation etc.) raise questions which create a dialogue in the lesson or class. With my guidance we discuss each aspect of the issue. Practice techniques are then suggested through problem solving.

I have extensive knowledge of a wide range of skills which create both an individual and group learning platform. These sessions enhance a student's personal practice and therefore enable faster progress between individual and group lessons. Classes enable the development of group rehearsal technique through team problem solving, vital in any ensemble. Students also gain a greater knowledge of the performance aspects relating to other instruments and musicians through this process.

Ensemble Coaching

Specialising in woodwind and brass ensemble coaching to professional level, I offer coaching for concerts or performance examinations... read more

Using thorough and effective rehearsal technique I cover everything from style, interpretation and musicality through to nerves, stage presence, deportment and programming.

I also work regularly coaching small or large sectionals for orchestras, including the South African Youth Orchestras, MIAGI and the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra Academy. I gave also worked alongside musicians at the UNISA Music Foundation and the University of Pretoria Symphony Orchestra.

These masterclasses offer an extension to students' preparations for performance or examination... read more

Finishing touches can be added to phrasing, musicality and any remaining glitches can be ironed out, ensuring the highest possible chance of success. Issues of deportment and stage presence can also be addressed. Such aspects are vital to successful performance but are rarely covered.

Aspects of examinations and auditions such as how to cope with sight-reading, how to prepare orchestral excerpts/parts can be incorporated, as can the extra ways in which students can broaden their preparation through performance itself, physical awareness, wider reading, use of recordings and so on.

Students in a performance class have the opportunity to perform, contribute and take direction in front of their peers. This experience is necessary to grow as a performer for a future in music or in any profession which requires leadership and interaction with colleagues. Building confidence through this experience will be an advantage to any student.